METAIRIE, La. -- The New Orleans Saints added another young running back to their dynamic backfield Tuesday.

They are signing second-year pro Jonathan Williams off of the Denver Broncos' practice squad, a source confirmed. The news was first reported by the NFL Network.

Williams, 23, was a fifth-round draft pick of the Buffalo Bills last year but played a limited role (27 carries for 94 yards and a touchdown). He was a surprise roster cut in Week 1 before the Broncos won a bidding war to add him to their practice squad.

The 6-foot, 223-pounder will be reunited with his former running backs coach from Arkansas, Joel Thomas, who coaches the Saints' runners. The Saints had a roster spot open because second-year running back/special teamer Daniel Lasco was placed on injured reserve with the bulging disc he suffered in a frightening injury Sunday at Buffalo.

Williams is likely just a developmental pickup and possible special teams asset. He likely won't see much playing time on offense this year behind the dynamic duo of Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara.

The Saints' current third-string running back is undrafted rookie Trey Edmunds, another specialist who didn't see a touch until Sunday's rout at Buffalo -- and he made the most of it with nine carries for 48 yards and a touchdown.